Diastasis recti
Table of Contents
Definition
Diastasis recti is a medical condition where the two large parallel bands of muscles that meet in the middle of the abdomen, known as the rectus abdominis, separate during pregnancy. This occurs due to the uterus pushing against the abdominal wall causing the muscles to weaken and separate. It may lead to a bulge in your belly, causing a “pooch” appearance.
Key Takeaways
- Diastasis Recti refers to the separation of the abdominal muscles that often occurs during pregnancy as the belly expands. This condition may result in a bulging belly or “pooch” after childbirth.
- It is a common and normally harmless condition. Although it can cause discomfort and lower back pain, it is not a severe or life-threatening problem.
- Treatment for diastasis recti usually involves physiotherapy and exercises designed to strengthen the abdominal muscles. Surgery may be required in severe cases, but it isn’t typically the first line of treatment.
Importance
Diastasis recti is an important term in motherhood because it refers to a condition that many women experience during and after pregnancy.
It involves the separation of the abdominal muscles, specifically the rectus abdominis muscles, which normally meet in the middle of the abdomen.
Pregnancy can cause these muscles to separate due to the stretching of the belly, leading to a gap.
This condition can result in a bulge or “pooch” appearing in the abdominal area, and can also lead to back pain and functional problems.
Therefore, knowing about diastasis recti helps mothers understand changes to their body post-pregnancy and allows them to seek appropriate treatments if necessary.
Explanation
Diastasis Recti is a term often used in maternity care, referring to the separation of your ‘six-pack’ muscles at the midline of your belly. This separation is a natural occurrence during pregnancy in order to accommodate the growing uterus and baby.
These muscles stretch and separate, which results in the abdominal muscles’ linea alba thinning and widening. It is important to note that this is not a tear, but a stretching of the connective tissue.
Despite the disconcerting image this might conjure up, Diastasis Recti doesn’t usually pose serious risks for the mother. Its primary function is to make room for the pregnancy.
Postpartum, depending on the degree of separation, it can present aesthetic concerns or lead to lower back pain or pelvic dysfunction if not properly managed. For some women, it may close naturally in the months following birth, but for others, specific physical therapies or even surgery might be required to regain pre-pregnancy abdominal tone and strength.
Examples of Diastasis recti
Example 1: A 30-year-old woman, after giving birth to her first child, starts noticing a gap in her belly button area. Upon visiting her doctor, she was diagnosed with diastasis recti. Even though she engages in regular exercises after delivery, progress is slow. She works with a skilled physical therapist who provides her with exercises designed specifically for postpartum women with diastasis recti.
Example 2: Another example could be a woman in her late 30s, who has had multiple pregnancies and is struggling with back pain and poor posture. She finds that despite her regular workout routine, her belly is not firming up, and she often has difficulties in movements like sitting up from a lying position. Her doctor confirms her suspicion of diastasis recti. She opts for a treatment plan that combines physical therapy and a specialized exercise program.
Example 3: A new mother, only a couple of months postpartum, notices what looks like a small mound protruding down the center of her abdomen whenever she tries to sit up. She did some research online and suspected that she might have diastasis recti. Upon a visit to her OB/GYN, her suspicion was confirmed, and she began a targeted fitness regimen that focuses on strengthening her core in a way that is safe for the condition.
Frequently Asked Questions: Diastasis Recti
What is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis Recti is a medical condition where the large abdominal muscles separate. This is common in pregnant women and post-partum, but it can also occur in anyone, including men.
What causes Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis Recti is caused by the uterus stretching the muscles in the abdomen during pregnancy. It can also occur due to incorrect exercises or from straining the abdominal muscles.
How do I know if I have Diastasis Recti?
A professional healthcare provider can provide a proper diagnosis, but one common symptom is a bulge in your stomach, particularly when straining the abdominal muscles. Some people also have lower back pain.
How can I treat Diastasis Recti?
Treatment options include physical therapy, certain types of exercise, and in some cases, surgery. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for a personalised treatment plan.
Can Diastasis Recti be prevented?
While not completely preventable, you can mitigate the risk by strengthening your core muscles, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding straining your abdominal muscles.
Related Motherhood Terms
- Abdominal Separation: Another term referring to Diastasis Recti, characterised by a gap between the two sides of the rectus abdominis muscle.
- Postpartum Recovery: The time period following childbirth during which the mother’s body, including any Diastasis Recti, can heal and return to its pre-pregnant state.
- Core Strengthening Exercises: Physical activities aimed at strengthening abdominal and pelvic muscles, often used as therapy for Diastasis Recti.
- Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: A condition that may occur in tandem with Diastasis Recti, affecting the group of muscles that provide support for your bladder, bowels, and uterus.
- Physiotherapy for Diastasis Recti: A common treatment that involves exercises led by trained professionals to help improve Diastasis Recti.
